Antonio Y. Piña

Antonio Y. Piña, a fiercely devoted father, proud Chicano, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on February 19, 1947, in Donna, Texas. Antonio was the youngest son and second youngest child of Guadalupe and Tomas Piña I. In his youth, he worked in the fields alongside his family as migrant workers and learned the true value of hard work and every dollar earned.

His family settled in Dimmitt, Texas in the 60’s, and upon graduating high school, Antonio realized an education was his path forward.

Driven to build a better life, he moved to Waco, Texas, and began attending Texas State Technical Institute (TSTI). Putting his education on hold, Antonio chose to following in his father's footsteps and joined the US Marine Corps in 1969; proudly served until 1971. After serving his country, Antonio continued his education earning his degree, he became an instructor at TSTI. He pursued the life he wanted to build which included starting a family and his passion of working on cars.

Antonio witnessed the reality of segregation and inequality from a young age, which led him to become a tireless civil rights leader and a staple of LULAC, holding picket signs, marching, and paving the way for Latino advancement. He knew education and advocacy were the keys to progress. Never one to settle, Antonio took a leap of faith, walked a way from teaching to put himself through law school. He carried that passion into his career, ultimately serving his community as an Assistant District Attorney with the McLennan County District Attorney's Office until his retirement.

To those who knew him best, Antonio was the most stubborn man around—and the best, most devoted father imaginable. Though he wasn't one big on words or affection, his family never doubted his deep love. His steady presence spoke louder than words ever could. He taught his children that family takes care of family, that everyone contributes from the youngest to the oldest, and that being proud of your roots matters.

He loved Ford vehicles, collecting old cars, and hunting for junk treasures. While he was admittedly an awful cook, his family loved every meal he ever made. In his later years, even through his battle with dementia, his heart stayed light whenever he was with his granddaughters, fondly calling them "Dolly"—the same nickname he lovingly gave his daughter.

Antonio is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Antonio Lozano Piña; the mother of his children, Matilda Lozano; his wife Rosa Piña; and his siblings, Tomas "Tito" Piña II, Jose "Pepe" Piña, and Irene Granado.

He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, pride, and love to his family. He is survived by his son, Jesse Piña; his daughter, Alma Fraga, and husband, Benjamin; his sister, Natividad Haliburton; and a loving host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In accordance with his wishes, the family will celebrate his life in a private ceremony. While we are choosing to gather privately, we deeply appreciate your love, support, and understanding during this time.

In lieu of attendance, we encourage all who knew him to honor his memory in their own special way and warmly invite you to share your favorite stories and condolences.

We invite you to leave a message or memory of Antiono in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.